Sadly though it may be the taking of ones own life is not an uncommon event. Suicide can be committed by people of any social background or culture. It seldom happens in children who have not yet been exposed to the life experiences which seem to be associated with suicide.

Before talking about preventing suicide it is important to have some understanding of just why an individual would want to kill him or her self.

Why Commit Suicide?

Studies of the backgrounds of people who have committed suicide indicate that the reasons are both symptomatic of both a medical and a psychosocial problem.

-          A positive direct correlation has been established between people who have taken their own life, and a deficiency in the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is obtained from the amino acid trytophan, and acts as a neurotransmitter which can affect the emotional state of the mind.

-          Large amounts of stress can bring about a suicidal state of mind. A problem which exists in the mind of the person may seem to be unsolvable, and lead to dramatic feelings of hopelessness.

-          Such seeming endless problems, which cannot be resolved result in a mind state where suicide becomes an attractive option.

-          Teenagers who feel extreme depression as a result of not fitting in with their peers, or from over indulgence in either drugs or alcohol are vulnerable to acts of suicide.

Somehow death resulting from suicide has a different effect on friends and relatives of the person. Death from natural or other causes is treated in a different manner than suicide. There seems to be a social stigma of shame associated with the event, which makes the grieving period more painful.

So is there anyway of preventing suicide?  If warning signs are observed by friends and relatives and the person is stating thoughts of suicide. Preventive measures can be taken to relieve the suicidal thoughts and depression, by the often recommended CARE method.

Preventing Suicide.

The CARE approach places the emphasis on early recognition of suicidal behavior and extreme depression and includes the following—

-          Check for signs of Emotional Illness or Depression. It is not common for suicide to be an instant event. It is preceded by prolonged emotional upset. Look out for signs of anxiety and depression or hopelessness. Any changes in sleeping or eating habits can be indicative of emotional disorder.

-          Anticipate Complications. Once the signs of distress are recognized, it is good to speak quietly to the person, and encourage him/her to try to open up the emotions. Be aware of any thoughts of inflicting self injury.

-          Remedy by Early Intervention. Seek early help from a doctor and give the person much reassurance that he will be loved and supported throughout his/her difficulty.

-          Educate. Get to know about the suicidal condition and how to best cope with the self destructive thoughts of the person. Self education can also be therapeutic in getting rid of any self recrimination.

Seemingly suicidal thoughts have only one objective which is death, but the reality is that suicidal thoughts are often a disguised cry for help. The CARE approach can help in preventing suicide.

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